Spondylolisthesis

What is spondylolisthesis?

In spondylolisthesis, one bone in your back (vertebra), slides forward over the bone beneath it. This usually happens in the lower spine. The sliding squeezes your spinal cord or nerves. Spondylolisthesis can be caused by:

• Degenerative disease, especially arthritis
• Trauma, sports injury or bone disease
• Birth defect (in children)

Why choose us for spondylolisthesis treatment?

When you come to LVHN, you will find:

• Customized treatment plan: Some patients experience symptom relief with conservative treatments. Other patients require surgical intervention quickly, to prevent spine damage or complications. Our neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons assess you promptly and determine the treatment plan that meets your needs. 
• Comprehensive care: We provide all the care you need, from your initial evaluation through treatment and rehabilitation. 
• Surgical expertise: Our expert spinal surgeons perform advanced surgeries, often using minimally invasive procedures for an easier recovery. We use the latest imaging technology to visualize the area during the surgery and ensure the procedure is a success.

Spondylolisthesis symptoms 

You may not experience symptoms at all. If you do, they can range from mild to severe. Symptoms include: 

• Swayback (lordosis), an abnormal bent posture
• Roundback (kyphosis), abnormal rounding of the upper back
• Lower back pain
• Muscle tightness, especially in the hamstring
• Pain in the thighs and buttocks
• Stiffness
• Tenderness 
• Radiating pain in the legs

Spondylolisthesis diagnosis 

We begin the diagnosis with a medical history and physical examination. We typically use imaging scans to confirm a diagnosis.

• Computed tomography (CT) scan: X-rays and computer technology produce detailed images of the body.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A large magnet and radio waves produce detailed images of the body.
• X-ray: An X-ray provides detailed pictures of internal tissues, bones and organs.

Spondylolisthesis treatment

Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of your symptoms. Nonsurgical treatments include:

• Physical therapy
• Chiropractic treatment
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Back brace

If we determine that surgery will offer you the best results, we will discuss the surgical options with you. Procedures include:

• Anterior lumbar fusion: Joins the vertebrae through an abdominal incision to ease lower back and leg pain
• Laminectomy: Removes a portion of vertebral bone
• Posterior lumbar fusion: Joins vertebrae, through an incision on your back, to ease lower back and leg pain